This is the tool I have:

When the spring hooks over a little post, you just put that black socket over the post, turn it, and off pops the spring.� The divot at the end of the other handle is used for reinstalling springs.� Unfortunately, the Jeep brake springs don't hook over a little post...� (And these things are only 8 bucks at Princess Auto.� Probably a similar price at Harbor Freight for those in the US.� Or you can something similar from SnapOn for $30+.)
I haven't figured out what the pliers do, though.� If there's a way to use them on the Jeep, I haven't figured it out.
Sounds like the brute force method works, though!
-Paul